Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has shed light on the opposition to his political structure, the Rainbow Coalition, by All Progressives Congress (APC) governors. According to Wike, the opposition is driven by political interests, with some governors contesting next year's senatorial elections to control the National Assembly. Wike made these remarks during a TVC programme, 'Journalist Hangout'. He emphasized that the opposition to the Rainbow Coalition, comprising PDP and APC members in Rivers State, is unjustified.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma is leading the onslaught against Wike's Rainbow Coalition. Wike alleged that Uzodinma is nurturing an ambition to become Senate President in 2027. Wike questioned the motive behind the opposition, stating that those against the coalition cannot justify their actions. He cited Uzodinma's expiring tenure in 10-11 months and his desire to contest the senatorial election.
Wike challenged those alleging that President Bola Tinubu had agreed to concede nine states to him through the Rainbow Coalition. He described the allegation as propaganda, insisting that his support was for President Tinubu's re-election bid, not a deal to prevent other parties from fielding candidates. Wike demanded that those making such claims provide evidence, stating that he and other political actors have a duty to defend their interests during the elections.
The Progressive Governors' Forum, led by Uzodinma, has maintained that APC governors will only support party-sponsored candidates and not endorse alliances that could weaken the APC. However, Wike rejected the notion that supporting President Tinubu automatically translates to supporting all APC candidates. He emphasized that voters are free to make different choices on the same ballot.
Wike accused his opponents of using propaganda to create the impression that his political activities are against Tinubu. He stressed that every politician should present their "report card" to Nigerians. Wike maintained that his support for Tinubu is specifically for the President's re-election, while the Rainbow Coalition is separate from the APC.
The FCT Minister also clarified that he never promised that the PDP would not field candidates for governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly elections in 2027. Wike emphasized that Nigerians have a duty to interrogate the political activities of public officials rather than merely worshipping political positions.
The Rainbow Coalition is backing notable candidates on the platforms of the PDP and APC ahead of the general election. Wike's clarification comes amid allegations that he is working with President Tinubu to concede nine states to his political allies. The Minister has rejected these claims, calling them baseless and without evidence.
Key points
- Wike attributes opposition to Rainbow Coalition to APC governors' political interests
- Uzodinma accused of seeking Senate Presidency in 2027
- Wike clarifies support for Tinubu does not mean backing all APC candidates
